ADVERTISING FEATURE WAITAKI HERALD, JULY 16, 2014 9 Smile Says it All: Many children with Autism are unable to smile. This is not the case now for Ben Fairburn, 10. Captured Moment: The photo all parents of autistic children love – a moment of unguarded pleasure from Jordi Leyden, 3. Exploration Time: 10-yearold Taylor Ball is able to get out and explore the world. Lots of Fun: 5-year-old Toby Peters is all smiles as he enjoys time playing outside. BOAT REPAIRS ANDS AN SERVICING... ... The Waitaki Autism Trust T The Waitaki Autism Trust he Waitaki Autism Trust was established in 2013 by a group of parents in the Waitaki region who see the need for special therapies for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) not currently funded by New Zealand Health Services. Members of the trust all have children diagnosed with autism and have experienced first-hand the difficult task of dealing with someone with autism. We value the effectiveness of early intervention and the difference it can make to the longterm quality of life for children and their families. warmly invites other parents and family members to join them. Our Mission: ❚ We believe there is hope. ❚ We believe our children need inclusion. ❚ We believe our kids can reach their potential with the help of special therapies. ❚ We want to give every child the opportunity to reach their individual potential. ❚ Our mission is to give a better quality of life to our children and to reach their maximum potential. What we do Our aim is to provide assistance and support families in the Waitaki region. As parents of ASD children we realise the need for diagnosis and early intervention. We aim to provide: ❚ Guidance for families and their first steps to diagnosis. ❚ Our shared experiences and emotional support. ❚ Education to the wider community about autism and alternative therapies. ❚ A wide range of knowledge for assistance of immediate and future needs in the autism community. ❚ Assistance by funding applications. Te Qualified Experiencedr Ve Qualifi ed, Expe ienced, Versatile Technicians ▲ Quiet ▲ Clean ▲ Affordable Mortimers Garage 461 Thames Highway • Ph (03) 433 1150 Proud to support awareness of the Waitaki Autism Trust Oamaru Licensing Trust BAR • RESTAURANT • MOTEL Bar and Bottlestore - Sky, entertainment, gaming room, TAB Restaurant - all day dining, groups and functions welcome, open 7 days for lunch and dinner Motel - 16 fully contained units, 2 disability units, 2 family units, close to sports grounds and schools 495A THAMES HIGHWAY PH (03) 437 1190 6188903AA Liquorland Oamaru #1 for Beer, Wine & Spirits and the PRIDE behind North Otago Rugby THAMES STREET PH (03) 434 9883 From the moment you step inside this enchanting hotel you will enjoy the comfortable and friendly atmosphere for a truly unforgettable time. 115 THAMES STREET PH (03) 433 0480 Whether you’re stopping in to play the pokies or just catching up with your mates, relax and enjoy the friendly atmosphere at Sports Central. 1 WEAR STREET PH [03] 434 1424 Open 11am Daily Private bookings by arrangement t S n O a l y r ti $ n g 6 9 f a t r 9 o 6 . 2 p h 6191179AA 6189487AA